Product SynopsisPublished by Canadean, this Quarterly Beverage Tracker report provides a detailed analysis of the latest developments in the Hungary beverage market

Introduction and LandscapeWhy was the report written?In the current climate of economic uncertainty and market volatility companies need to know about more than just data. This report provides a complete overview of all commercial beverage consumption trends, latest market developments and an economic mood indicator

What is the current market landscape and what is changing?As of 1 July 2013 there was a 10% reduction in water, sewerage and waste disposal fees as well as in the prices of PB gas. In accordance with the Government’s intentions, parliament reduced household gas, electricity and district heating prices by another 11% as of 1 November 2013.

What are the key drivers behind recent market changes?From October to December consumer prices saw an increase compared to the same period in 2012. Besides the decreased prices of electricity, gas and other fuels, as well as motor fuel, consumer goods saw prices rise. Though decreased energy bills have improved consumer purchasing power the effect has been mitigated by the increased cost of food.

What makes this report unique and essential to read?Designed for clients who want to understand the latest trends in the Hungary beverage industry and want more detail and analysis on this data. Canadean’s Hungary Quarterly Beverage Tracker report is ideal for benchmarking total market vs retail audit data and is an essential tool for keeping up-to-date with the latest industry and market developments

Key Features and BenefitsReaders are provided with a summary snap shot table showing category growth in Q42013vs Q42012, together with provisional 2013volumes and latest2014 forecasts

An economic mood indicator, completed by Canadean’s local consultant, examines (on a scale of one to five) whether confidence levels in the industry are better or worse than the previous quarter, whether net prices are rising or falling and how Private Label products have performed versus the rest of the market. Selected retail pricing data is given for the most recent quarter and the previous four quarters, enabling analysis of price movements.

Key highlights of the last quarter’s commercial beverage performance are identified and the key market drivers examined

Key Market IssuesFoods such as pasta, cheese and milk all saw increases during this period as well as alcoholic beverages which saw the highest rises in prices.

Media spending is declining year on year, but television is still the most important media for both FMCG and Retail advertising.

The largest soft drinks categories declined against a backdrop of economic woe.

Key HighlightsThe late autumn and early winter was unusually mild, with no snow falling during these months. Usually the first snow fall is due in late November; This good weather linked with favorable market conditions found during the Christmas period may have softened the blow and slightly improved Q4 results in what has been a tough year for the Hungarian economy.

The utility charge reductions have contributed to a major extent a fall in inflation to under 1%, which is beneficial for citizens.

With greater global awareness for the need of healthier diets and consumer choice, companies are increasingly presenting flavored waters as a welcome middle ground between other soft drinks and water. They offer products with fewer calories than some carbonated beverages and may add extra interest to plain bottled water.